John Arthur Lemke

John was born November 22, 1945 in Chicago, IL to Doris (Hall) and John V. Lemke.

He married Mary Bahr on December 29, 1965 at the United Methodist Parsonage in West Salem, IL.

John had various and interesting occupations, hobbies and passions during his lifetime. He was a farmer, oilfield worker and a mechanic. He served his country during the Vietnam War, fulfilling two tours-of-duty in the Navy, specifically the Seabees Construction Battalion.

John was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Olney and also enjoyed attending Elm St. Christian Church in Olney. He was also a lifetime member of the Olney VFW, and the Disabled Veterans of America, the NRA, and past member of the Olney American Legion.

John became disabled in 1984. He was able to slow down a bit and concentrate his energies and attention on his family, and was a loving and devoted Husband, Dad and Grandpa. His grandchildren were absolutely the bright spots in his life, he loved them dearly. Another love John held was for his dogs, Heidi and Holly, who brought much comfort and unconditional love.

He leave many warm memories of family times spent camping and rides on his Canam-Spyder.

He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of over 47 years, Mary of Olney,

daughter Lisa (Roger) Wayland, Calhoun, IL, son John Robert (Robin) Lemke, Fond du Lac, WI, (currently stationed in Afghanistan), sisters: Helen (Clyde) Liston, Geff, IL, and Janet (Stephen) King, Mason City, IL, one brother, Jim Lemke, West Salem, IL, six grandchildren: Jessica Snidle, John Snidle, Ian Lemke, Sarah Lemke, Jack Lemke and Samantha Lemke, four step-grandchildren: Bryn Wayland, Joe (Brandy) Wayland, Nathan (Brandy) Wayland, Charlana Wayland, four step-great-grandchildren: Hailey, Robert, Jaccob and Ivory.

Funeral service for John Arthur Lemke will be held at 10:30AM, on Saturday, April 27, 2013 at the First United Methodist Church in Olney, IL. Following the service the Patriot Guard will lead the procession to Haven Hill Cemetery, Olney, where John’s body will be laid to earthly rest with full military rites conducted by the Olney VFW.

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 PM, Friday, April 26, 2013 at the church.

Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Olney, or the Elm Street Christian Church of Olney.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ingram Funeral Home, West Salem, IL

Online condolences may be left for the family, as well as viewing of pictures that capture John’s life at www.ingramfh.net